On June 17, 2025, the European Commission introduced the Defence Readiness Omnibus, a comprehensive legislative package aimed at removing regulatory barriers and enhancing EU defence capabilities by 2030.

These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure EU defence autonomy by 2030, aligned with the ReArm Europe Plan and Defence White Paper.

Legislative approval from both the European Parliament and Member States will be required, with potential opposition due to the broad scope and sensitivity of the proposals.

The Omnibus includes 'Buy European' clauses for direct awards, limiting bids to EU entities and boosting procurement opportunities for military equipment.

The legislative package is a response to consultations with defence industry stakeholders, aiming to improve defence readiness and facilitate investment in the sector.

The Omnibus seeks to amend EU legislation to streamline defence procurement and reduce regulatory hurdles faced by the defence industry.

Key proposals include fast-tracking amendments to the Defence Procurement Directive, increasing application thresholds, and introducing 'Buy European' clauses for certain direct procurement contracts.

The European Commission emphasized that while EU competition rules will still apply, they should not hinder necessary defence initiatives, especially concerning state aid and private investments.

The Omnibus proposes broader exemptions from environmental regulations to expedite defence-related product production, addressing Member States' reluctance to use current exemptions.

Changes to the European Defence Fund (EDF) Regulation will streamline funding, including equalizing award criteria for R&D and allowing direct awards of funding retroactively from January 1, 2025.

A new EU regulation aims to expedite permitting for defence projects, establishing a 60-day limit and a single administrative contact to streamline approval processes.

Amendments to the Intra-EU Defence Transfers Directive will simplify cross-border defence product transfers by allowing Member States to waive licensing requirements for certain transfers related to EU defence programs.